Travelling through the Middle East doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank on accommodation. Oman’s capital city, Muscat, is known for its blend of old-world charm and modern development and its hotels reflect that range. You can find everything from simple guesthouses in historic quarters to new four-star hotels, all at prices far below what similarly equipped hotels cost elsewhere.
Here we are focusing on budget-friendly hotels in Muscat for under USD 100 (OMR 40) per night that offer not just a bed, but character convenience, or unique amenities.
Mutrah Hotel: Ready for exploring
Price: USD 40 – 50 per night
Standout features: It’s strategically located near the Muttrah Souk, Muttrah Fort, and the Corniche harbour, you can walk to these in under 30 minutes.
Amenities:
- Air conditioning
- Bike rental
- 24-hour front desk
- Free parking
- Airport transfers
- Free Wi-Fi
- On-site restaurant serving Arabic, Indian and Omani cuisine
Mutrah Hotel is a budget hotel in the Mutrah district that’s famous for its history and excellent location. The lobby features traditional Omani decor and old photographs, and the staff are known for their warm hospitality. Rates can be as low as OMR 15-20 ($40-50) a night, which is quite low for a private ensuite room in Muscat. If you want to immerse yourself in the old city vibe and stay where early visitors to Oman stayed, Mutrah Hotel is an affordable, nostalgic choice.
Riyam Hotel: Pools with a view
Price: USD 45 – 65 per night
Standout features: The outdoor pool with cabana beds and barbeque area is brilliant for the budget. Some rooms also have their own hot tubs.
Amenities:
- Fitness centre
- Free Wi-Fi
- Free parking
- Business centre
- Some rooms have sea-views
- Car hire
Also in the Mutrah area, Riyam Hotel is a budget-friendly hotel that is located just a 10-minute walk from the seaside Corniche, making it ideally located to explore Mutrah’s old town on foot. It’s ideal for those who want to get the most for their budget and travellers have shared that the hotel is well worth the stay and feels a lot more than a 2-star stay.
Golden Tulip Headington Ruwi: Modern skyline views
Price: USD 50–75 per night
Standout features: The rooftop swimming pool with skyline views and surrounding hills.
Amenities:
- 4-star
- Fitness centre
- Spa
- Airport shuttle
- All-day dining restaurant
The Golden Tulip Headington is a modern hotel in Ruwi that offers an excellent deal given its class. This hotel is in the heart of Ruwi’s bustling market and business area, making it super convenient if you have business in the city or want a base with urban amenities. If you prefer a more upmarket stay on a budget, this hotel is perfect. You get the quality and service of an international chain, at a nightly price that’s a fraction of similar hotels elsewhere. Plus, its location in Ruwi means you’re 5 minutes from Mutrah by taxi, and Qurum beach is around 15 minutes.
Qurum Beach Hotel: Budget on the beach
Price: USD 50–80 per night
Standout features: Minutes from the long sandy beach which is a favourite among locals and expats.
Amenities:
- Family room options
- 24-hour front desk
- Free Parking
- Free Wi-Fi
- Disabled guest facilities
- Concierge facilities
- Family-friendly restaurant and bar
As the name suggests, this is a budget hotel right by the beach in the Qurum district, and is one of the few affordable options in Muscat’s upscale beachside area. It’s an older property which reflects in the decor, but its location and price make you willing to overlook it. There’s an in-house restaurant which sometimes has live music or performances, giving guests a bit of entertainment in the evenings and it’s a 5 minute drive from The Royal Opera House. With a lift, it’s also more accessible for disabled guests.
Fort Guest House: A unique traditional stay
Price: USD 50–80 per night
Standout feature: Experience what it’s like to stay in a traditional Omani guest house, with some modern amenities.
Amenities:
- Free parking
- Free Wi-Fi
- 3-star
- Outdoor swimming pool and natural fardens
- Tennis court
Set in a restored Omani house with classic architectural features like arched doorways, lattice windows, and a rooftop terrace. Fort Guest House is often highlighted as one of the most traditional budget hotels in Muscat. From four-poster beds and colourful textiles to family rooms and shared kitchens you can cook in, you can experience a traditional home away from home. From Fort Guesthouse, you’re also within walking distance to Ghalya’s Museum of Modern Art, Dawhat Matrah, and Khawr Riyam.
Muscat on a budget is not only possible, but it can be incredibly rewarding, so long as you pick hotels that give you the most bang for your buck, like the options mentioned above!
Also read: Oman’s untamed beauty: mountains, beaches, islands and wadis
